2008 News Archive - Holidays - Holidaymakers 'flock' to Turkey

An increasing number of British holidaymakers are shunning traditional destinations in favour of holidays outside of the eurozone.

According to M&S Money, sales of Turkish lira are up by 53 per cent compared to last year, with the lira being named as one of the most popular exotic currencies.

Figures released by the Association of British Travel Agents revealed that bookings to Turkey have increased by 20 per cent in the last year, with Britons reportedly keen to see their pound go further.

Commenting on the findings, Fraser Miller, M&S head of travel services, said: "The huge increase in sales of Turkish currency is not surprising, with the relative power of the euro against the pound meaning Brits are getting more for their money by opting for destinations like Turkey.

"This trend is confirmed by the fact that there has also been a large increase in sales of Egyptian currency this year."

Some of Turkey's most popular areas include Bodrum, Igdir and Antalya.Britons interested in soaking up some culture during their holidays can also explore Turkey's famous ruins, with highlights including The Library of Celsus and the Roman ruins of Ephesus.